"We have been taking possession of the Cheval Noir," exclaimed Dunstan. "Will you not enter and keep us company for a while?"
"Quite willingly," assented the poilu, stepping inside.
The three reseated themselves at the table, while the soldier, pulling out a chair at the end, made himself comfortable.
"I suppose you are off duty, and, as a relaxation from your dangerous work, have been taking a stroll about the country?" he said, politely.
"Quite correct, Monsieur," replied Don.
Then the newcomer, in a suave and polished manner, began to make many inquiries concerning their particular section of the Red Cross, as well as about their personal experiences at the front. Finally Don, in his turn, put a question to the poilu.
"Monsieur," he asked, "have you ever seen the Château de Morancourt?"
"Who in this locality has not?" responded the other, laconically.
"We had a very curious experience there to-night," pursued Don.
"Indeed! May I inquire the nature of it?"